10. The Constitution of India
—
An Introduction
A. MCQs
1.
Why is 26 January celebrated as Republic Day in India?
A.
India got independence
B. Constitution was adopted
C. Constitution came into effect
D. Parliament was formed
✅ Answer: C. Constitution came into effect
2.
The Constitution of India came into effect in:
A.
1946
B. 1947
C. 1949
D. 1950
✅ Answer: D. 1950
3.
The Constitution acts as the ________ of the country.
A.
Government office
B. Rulebook
C. Court order
D. Election law
✅ Answer: B. Rulebook
4.
Which of the following is NOT an organ of government?
A.
Legislature
B. Executive
C. Judiciary
D. Media
✅ Answer: D. Media
5.
Which organ of government makes laws?
A.
Judiciary
B. Executive
C. Legislature
D. Police
✅ Answer: C. Legislature
6.
Which organ implements laws?
A.
Legislature
B. Executive
C. Judiciary
D. Election Commission
✅ Answer: B. Executive
7.
Which organ ensures that laws are followed properly?
A.
Executive
B. Legislature
C. Judiciary
D. Cabinet
✅ Answer: C. Judiciary
8.
The Indian Constitution is the ________ written constitution in the world.
A.
shortest
B. oldest
C. largest
D. newest
✅ Answer: C. largest
9.
The Constitution originally had:
A.
20 Parts and 7 Schedules
B. 22 Parts and 8 Schedules
C. 25 Parts and 12 Schedules
D. 30 Parts and 10 Schedules
✅ Answer: B. 22 Parts and 8 Schedules
10.
Presently, the Constitution has:
A.
22 Parts and 8 Schedules
B. 24 Parts and 10 Schedules
C. 25 Parts and 12 Schedules
D. 28 Parts and 15 Schedules
✅ Answer: C. 25 Parts and 12 Schedules
11.
The Constituent Assembly was formed in:
A.
1945
B. 1946
C. 1947
D. 1950
✅ Answer: B. 1946
12.
The Constitution was adopted on:
A.
26 January 1950
B. 15 August 1947
C. 26 November 1949
D. 9 December 1946
✅ Answer: C. 26 November 1949
13.
Who was the Chairman of the Constituent Assembly?
A.
Jawaharlal Nehru
B. B. R. Ambedkar
C. Dr. Rajendra Prasad
D. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
✅ Answer: C. Dr. Rajendra Prasad
14.
The Drafting Committee was chaired by:
A.
Jawaharlal Nehru
B. B. R. Ambedkar
C. Rajendra Prasad
D. Subhas Chandra Bose
✅ Answer: B. B. R. Ambedkar
15.
The Constitution took nearly ________ years to complete.
A.
one
B. two
C. three
D. five
✅ Answer: C. three
16.
Which value was inspired by the French Revolution?
A.
Parliamentary democracy
B. Directive Principles
C. Liberty, Equality, Fraternity
D. Fundamental Duties
✅ Answer: C. Liberty, Equality, Fraternity
17.
Directive Principles of State Policy were inspired by:
A.
USA
B. France
C. Ireland
D. Russia
✅ Answer: C. Ireland
18.
Independent judiciary was influenced by the Constitution of:
A.
Britain
B. USA
C. France
D. Germany
✅ Answer: B. USA
19.
“Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” means:
A.
Unity is strength
B. The world is one family
C. Knowledge is power
D. Service to nation
✅ Answer: B. The world is one family
20.
Fundamental Duties were added to the Constitution in:
A.
1950
B. 1962
C. 1976
D. 1992
✅ Answer: C. 1976
21.
Panchayati Raj System was added by the:
A.
42nd Amendment
B. 73rd Amendment
C. 44th Amendment
D. 52nd Amendment
✅ Answer: B. 73rd Amendment
22.
Which Article provides equality before law?
A.
Article 21
B. Article 19
C. Article 14
D. Article 32
✅ Answer: C. Article 14
Article\
14:\ Equality\ before\ law
23.
Which Article gives Right to Education?
A.
Article 14
B. Article 19
C. Article 21
D. Article 21A
✅ Answer: D. Article 21A
24.
Fundamental Rights are:
A.
Government suggestions
B. Rights guaranteed to citizens
C. Court punishments
D. Election rules
✅ Answer: B. Rights guaranteed to citizens
25.
Which of the following is a Fundamental Duty?
A.
Voting in elections
B. Respecting the National Flag
C. Joining Parliament
D. Paying school fees
✅ Answer: B. Respecting the National Flag
26.
Directive Principles are:
A.
Strict laws
B. Punishments
C. Guidelines for government
D. Election rules
✅ Answer: C. Guidelines for government
27.
Which of the following is NOT a Directive Principle?
A.
Public health
B. Protection of environment
C. Equality before law
D. Welfare of people
✅ Answer: C. Equality before law
28.
The Preamble reflects the ________ of the Constitution.
A.
punishments
B. elections
C. guiding values
D. schedules
✅ Answer: C. guiding values
29.
“We, the People of India” means:
A.
Constitution was made by British rulers
B. Constitution was made by Parliament only
C. Constitution derives authority from people
D. Constitution belongs only to government
✅ Answer: C. Constitution derives authority from people
30.
A republic means:
A.
Rule by king
B. Religious rule
C. Head of state is elected
D. Rule by army
✅ Answer: C. Head of state is elected
31.
Secularism means:
A.
Government supports one religion
B. No freedom of religion
C. Equal respect for all religions
D. Rule by religious leaders
✅ Answer: C. Equal respect for all religions
32.
Sovereign means:
A.
India is ruled by another country
B. India can make independent decisions
C. India follows monarchy
D. India has no Constitution
✅ Answer: B. India can make independent decisions
33.
Socialist means:
A.
Government controls every activity
B. Wealth should benefit society
C. Only rich people can own property
D. Citizens cannot do business
✅ Answer: B. Wealth should benefit society
34.
Fraternity means:
A.
Religious rule
B. Brotherhood among citizens
C. Military control
D. Economic equality only
✅ Answer: B. Brotherhood among citizens
35.
Liberty means:
A.
No laws in the country
B. Freedom of thought and expression
C. Rule by judges
D. Rule by ministers
✅ Answer: B. Freedom of thought and expression
36.
Which gas is used to preserve the original Constitution?
A.
Oxygen
B. Nitrogen
C. Helium
D. Hydrogen
✅ Answer: C. Helium
37.
The Constitution of India is also considered a work of art because:
A.
It is written in many languages
B. It was painted by foreign artists
C. It contains beautiful illustrations
D. It is made of gold
✅ Answer: C. It contains beautiful illustrations
38.
Who handwrote the Constitution of India?
A.
Nandalal Bose
B. Prem Behari Narain Raizada
C. B. R. Ambedkar
D. Rajendra Prasad
✅ Answer: B. Prem Behari Narain Raizada
39.
Which artist illustrated the Constitution?
A.
Prem Behari Narain Raizada
B. Raja Ravi Varma
C. Nandalal Bose
D. Abanindranath Tagore
✅ Answer: C. Nandalal Bose
40.
Why is the Constitution called a “living document”?
A.
It is kept in Parliament
B. It can be amended according to changing needs
C. It changes every year automatically
D. It belongs only to citizens
✅ Answer: B. It can be amended according to changing
needs
B.
Short Answer Questions
1.
What is a Constitution?
Answer
1.
A Constitution is the basic law of a country.
2.
It acts as the rulebook for governance.
3.
It explains powers and functions of government.
4.
It protects rights and duties of citizens.
2. Why
do we need a Constitution?
Answer
1.
It maintains order and fairness in society.
2.
It defines powers of different organs of government.
3.
It protects citizens’ rights.
4.
It prevents misuse of authority.
3.
Name the three organs of government and their functions.
Answer
1.
Legislature makes laws.
2.
Executive implements laws.
3.
Judiciary gives justice and protects laws.
4.
These organs work together for governance.
4.
What is meant by separation of powers?
Answer
1.
Legislature, executive, and judiciary work independently.
2.
No organ interferes in another’s functions.
3.
It prevents concentration of power.
4.
It ensures fairness and accountability.
5.
What is the importance of Republic Day?
Answer
1.
Republic Day is celebrated on 26 January.
2.
The Constitution came into effect on this day in 1950.
3.
India became a republic after this.
4.
It reminds citizens about constitutional values.
6.
What was the Constituent Assembly?
Answer
1.
It was the body that drafted the Constitution.
2.
It was formed in 1946.
3.
Members represented different regions and communities.
4.
It prepared the Constitution over nearly three years.
7.
Write any four facts about the Constituent Assembly.
Answer
1.
It was formed on 9 December 1946.
2.
Dr. Rajendra Prasad was its Chairman.
3.
It originally had 389 members.
4.
It adopted the Constitution on 26 November 1949.
8.
What was the role of B. R. Ambedkar in making the Constitution?
Answer
1.
He was Chairman of the Drafting Committee.
2.
He supervised drafting of the Constitution.
3.
He contributed ideas on equality and justice.
4.
He is called the chief architect of the Constitution.
9. How
did the freedom struggle influence the Constitution?
Answer
1.
It inspired ideals of liberty and equality.
2.
It encouraged democratic government.
3.
It promoted justice and rights for all citizens.
4.
It influenced universal adult franchise.
10.
How did Indian culture influence the Constitution?
Answer
1.
Indian traditions emphasized equality and welfare.
2.
Ideas like Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam influenced fraternity.
3.
Respect for diversity influenced secularism.
4.
Fundamental Duties were inspired by Indian traditions.
11.
What are Fundamental Rights?
Answer
1.
Fundamental Rights are basic rights of citizens.
2.
They protect freedom and equality.
3.
Citizens can approach courts if rights are violated.
4.
They are guaranteed by the Constitution.
12.
Write any four Fundamental Duties.
Answer
1.
Respect the Constitution and National Flag.
2.
Protect the environment and wildlife.
3.
Preserve India’s cultural heritage.
4.
Defend the country when needed.
13.
What are Directive Principles of State Policy?
Answer
1.
They are guidelines for the government.
2.
They aim at social and economic welfare.
3.
They help in making better policies.
4.
They are not enforceable in courts.
14.
Differentiate between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles.
Answer
1.
Fundamental Rights are enforceable in courts.
2.
Directive Principles are guidelines only.
3.
Rights protect citizens immediately.
4.
Directive Principles are long-term goals for welfare.
15.
What is meant by a “living Constitution”?
Answer
1.
Constitution can be changed when needed.
2.
Changes are called amendments.
3.
Amendments help Constitution meet new challenges.
4.
This keeps the Constitution relevant over time.
16.
What is the importance of the Preamble?
Answer
1.
It is the introduction to the Constitution.
2.
It explains the guiding values of India.
3.
It reflects goals like justice and equality.
4.
It helps citizens understand constitutional ideals.
17.
What does “Sovereign” mean in the Preamble?
Answer
1.
India is fully independent.
2.
No foreign power controls India.
3.
India can take its own decisions.
4.
Citizens are the ultimate source of authority.
18.
What does “Secular” mean in the Preamble?
Answer
1.
India has no official religion.
2.
All religions are treated equally.
3.
Citizens have freedom to follow any religion.
4.
Government respects all religions equally.
19.
What does “Equality” mean in the Preamble?
Answer
1.
All citizens are equal before law.
2.
Equal opportunities are provided to everyone.
3.
Discrimination should not exist in society.
4.
Social inequalities should be reduced.
Article
14: Equality before law
20.
Why is the Indian Constitution important?
Answer
1.
It provides the framework of government.
2.
It protects rights and freedoms of citizens.
3.
It promotes justice, equality, and democracy.
4.
It guides the nation towards welfare and unity.
C.
Long Answer Questions
1.
Explain the meaning and importance of the Constitution.
Answer
1.
The Constitution is the basic law and rulebook of the country.
2.
It explains the structure and functions of government.
3.
It defines powers of legislature, executive, and judiciary.
4.
It protects rights and duties of citizens.
5.
It ensures justice, equality, and freedom.
6.
It guides the nation according to democratic ideals.
2. Why
does a country need a Constitution?
Answer
1.
A Constitution maintains law and order in society.
2.
It prevents misuse of power by government.
3.
It defines powers and responsibilities of institutions.
4.
It protects rights of citizens.
5.
It provides rules for governance and decision-making.
6.
It promotes fairness, accountability, and stability.
3.
Explain the role of the Constitution as a rulebook for the country.
Answer
1.
The Constitution lays down laws and principles for governance.
2.
It explains how the government is formed and functions.
3.
It defines duties and rights of citizens.
4.
It establishes checks and balances among organs of government.
5.
It helps solve disputes fairly according to law.
6.
It ensures smooth functioning of democracy.
4.
Explain the composition and importance of the Constituent Assembly.
Answer
1.
The Constituent Assembly was formed in 1946.
2.
It had representatives from different regions and communities.
3.
It originally had 389 members and later 299 after Partition.
4.
It included women members and social reformers.
5.
The Assembly debated and drafted the Constitution.
6.
It ensured that the Constitution represented diverse Indian society.
5.
Describe the process of making the Indian Constitution.
Answer
1.
The Constituent Assembly started work on 9 December 1946.
2.
Members discussed important national issues and principles.
3.
The Drafting Committee prepared the initial draft.
4.
B. R. Ambedkar chaired the Drafting Committee.
5.
The Constitution was adopted on 26 November 1949.
6.
It came into effect on 26 January 1950.
6.
Explain the influence of the Indian freedom struggle on the Constitution.
Answer
1.
Freedom struggle inspired ideals of liberty and equality.
2.
Leaders wanted justice and rights for all citizens.
3.
Democracy and universal adult franchise were adopted.
4.
Fundamental Rights were included to protect freedoms.
5.
Separation of powers was introduced to avoid misuse of authority.
6.
The Constitution became a tool for social and political justice.
7.
Explain how India’s civilisational heritage influenced the Constitution.
Answer
1.
Ancient Indian traditions emphasized welfare and justice.
2.
Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam inspired fraternity and unity.
3.
Respect for diversity influenced secularism.
4.
Respect for nature inspired environmental protection.
5.
Rajadharma influenced the idea of responsible governance.
6.
Fundamental Duties reflected Indian cultural values.
8.
Explain the major influences from foreign constitutions on the Indian
Constitution.
Answer
1.
France inspired liberty, equality, and fraternity.
2.
Ireland inspired Directive Principles of State Policy.
3.
USA influenced the idea of independent judiciary.
4.
Britain influenced parliamentary democracy.
5.
Other democratic systems were also studied carefully.
6.
These ideas were adapted according to Indian needs.
9.
Explain the three organs of government and their functions.
Answer
1.
Legislature makes laws for the country.
2.
Executive implements laws and policies.
3.
Judiciary interprets laws and gives justice.
4.
These organs work independently under separation of powers.
5.
Their coordination ensures smooth governance.
6.
They prevent concentration and misuse of power.
10.
Explain the importance of separation of powers.
Answer
1.
It keeps legislature, executive, and judiciary independent.
2.
It prevents concentration of power in one institution.
3.
It ensures accountability among organs of government.
4.
It protects citizens from misuse of authority.
5.
Judiciary can check unconstitutional actions.
6.
It strengthens democracy and fairness.
11.
Explain the importance of Fundamental Rights.
Answer
1.
Fundamental Rights protect citizens’ freedoms.
2.
They guarantee equality before law.
3.
Citizens can approach courts if rights are violated.
4.
They prevent discrimination and exploitation.
5.
Rights strengthen democracy and dignity of individuals.
6.
They help ensure justice and liberty for all.
12.
Explain the importance of Fundamental Duties.
Answer
1.
Fundamental Duties encourage responsible citizenship.
2.
They promote respect for the Constitution and national symbols.
3.
Citizens are expected to protect environment and heritage.
4.
Duties strengthen national unity and discipline.
5.
They remind citizens about their responsibilities.
6.
Duties help in nation-building and social harmony.
13.
Explain the Directive Principles of State Policy.
Answer
1.
Directive Principles are guidelines for government policies.
2.
They aim to establish social and economic justice.
3.
They focus on welfare of citizens.
4.
They encourage protection of health and environment.
5.
They are not enforceable in courts.
6.
They help governments work toward a welfare state.
14.
Differentiate between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles.
Answer
1.
Fundamental Rights are enforceable in courts.
2.
Directive Principles are guidelines only.
3.
Rights protect individual freedoms immediately.
4.
Directive Principles focus on long-term welfare goals.
5.
Rights are legally guaranteed by Constitution.
6.
Directive Principles guide government policymaking.
15.
Explain why the Constitution is called a living document.
Answer
1.
The Constitution can be amended according to changing needs.
2.
Amendments help address new challenges in society.
3.
Fundamental Duties were added later through amendment.
4.
Panchayati Raj system was included by amendment in 1992.
5.
Parliament debates amendments carefully before approval.
6.
This flexibility keeps the Constitution relevant and effective.
16.
Explain the significance of the Preamble.
Answer
1.
The Preamble is the introduction to the Constitution.
2.
It explains ideals and goals of the nation.
3.
It reflects justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
4.
It expresses the democratic nature of India.
5.
It guides government policies and laws.
6.
It helps citizens understand constitutional values.
17.
Explain the meaning of the term “Secular” in the Preamble.
Answer
1.
India has no official religion.
2.
Citizens can follow any religion freely.
3.
Government treats all religions equally.
4.
Religious freedom is protected by the Constitution.
5.
No discrimination is allowed on religious grounds.
6.
Secularism promotes harmony and unity in society.
18.
Explain the meaning of “Democratic Republic”.
Answer
1.
Democracy means rule by the people.
2.
Citizens elect representatives through elections.
3.
Government remains accountable to the people.
4.
Republic means head of state is elected.
5.
India does not have a hereditary ruler.
6.
Democratic republic ensures political equality.
19.
Explain the meaning and importance of equality in the Constitution.
Answer
1.
Equality means all citizens are equal before law.
2.
Discrimination based on caste, religion, or gender is prohibited.
3.
Equal opportunities should be available to all.
4.
Equality helps reduce social injustice.
5.
It strengthens unity and democracy.
6.
Article 14 guarantees equality before law.
20.
Explain the importance of the Indian Constitution in strengthening democracy.
Answer
1.
The Constitution establishes democratic government.
2.
It guarantees Fundamental Rights to citizens.
3.
It provides universal adult franchise.
4.
It ensures separation of powers and independent judiciary.
5.
It promotes justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
6.
It protects unity, integrity, and welfare of the nation.
D. Assertion–Reason
Questions
Directions:
Choose
the correct option:
A.
Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, and R is the correct explanation of
A.
B. Both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are true, but R is not the correct
explanation of A.
C. Assertion (A) is true, but Reason (R) is false.
D. Assertion (A) is false, but Reason (R) is true.
1.
Assertion
(A):
The
Constitution is called the rulebook of the country.
Reason
(R):
It
lays down laws, principles, and structure of government.
Answer:
✅ A. Both A and R are true, and R is the
correct explanation of A.
2.
Assertion
(A):
India
celebrates Republic Day on 26 January every year.
Reason
(R):
The
Constitution of India came into effect on 26 January 1950.
Answer:
✅ A. Both A and R are true, and R is the
correct explanation of A.
3.
Assertion
(A):
The
Constitution protects the rights of citizens.
Reason
(R):
Citizens
can approach courts if their Fundamental Rights are violated.
Answer:
✅ A. Both A and R are true, and R is the
correct explanation of A.
4.
Assertion
(A):
The
Constituent Assembly represented different sections of Indian society.
Reason
(R):
Members
were selected only from one region of India.
Answer:
✅ C. Assertion is true, but Reason is
false.
5.
Assertion
(A):
The
judiciary is independent in India.
Reason
(R):
The
judiciary works separately from legislature and executive.
Answer:
✅ A. Both A and R are true, and R is the
correct explanation of A.
6.
Assertion
(A):
Fundamental
Duties are enforceable in courts.
Reason
(R):
Fundamental
Duties guide citizens to act responsibly.
Answer:
✅ D. Assertion is false, but Reason is
true.
7.
Assertion
(A):
Directive
Principles of State Policy are guidelines for the government.
Reason
(R):
Citizens
can directly move courts to enforce them.
Answer:
✅ C. Assertion is true, but Reason is
false.
8.
Assertion
(A):
India
adopted universal adult franchise from the beginning.
Reason
(R):
Every
adult citizen was given the right to vote irrespective of caste, religion, or
gender.
Answer:
✅ A. Both A and R are true, and R is the
correct explanation of A.
9.
Assertion
(A):
The
Constitution of India is called a living document.
Reason
(R):
It
can be amended according to changing needs.
Answer:
✅ A. Both A and R are true, and R is the
correct explanation of A.
10.
Assertion
(A):
The
Preamble reflects the ideals of the Constitution.
Reason
(R):
It
contains values like justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Answer:
✅ A. Both A and R are true, and R is the
correct explanation of A.
11.
Assertion
(A):
India
is called a secular country.
Reason
(R):
India
has an official state religion.
Answer:
✅ C. Assertion is true, but Reason is
false.
12.
Assertion
(A):
The
legislature makes laws in India.
Reason
(R):
The
executive interprets the Constitution and gives judgments.
Answer:
✅ C. Assertion is true, but Reason is
false.
13.
Assertion
(A):
Fundamental
Rights and Directive Principles are the same.
Reason
(R):
Fundamental
Rights are enforceable in courts, while Directive Principles are not.
Answer:
✅ D. Assertion is false, but Reason is
true.
14.
Assertion
(A):
The
Constitution promotes equality among citizens.
Reason
(R):
All
citizens are equal before law.
Answer:
✅ A. Both A and R are true, and R is the
correct explanation of A.
Article
14: Equality before law
15.
Assertion
(A):
The
Indian Constitution was influenced by constitutions of other countries.
Reason
(R):
The
makers of the Constitution studied democratic systems across the world.
Answer:
✅ A. Both A and R are true, and R is the
correct explanation of A.